How to Update Your MSI BIOS in Windows 10: A Comprehensive Guide

Updating your BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) might sound daunting, but it’s a crucial process for maintaining your MSI motherboard’s performance, stability, and compatibility with newer hardware and software, especially in a Windows 10 environment. A BIOS update can fix bugs, improve security, and even unlock new features. This guide will walk you through the safest and most effective methods for updating your MSI BIOS in Windows 10.

Table of Contents

Why Update Your MSI BIOS?

The BIOS is the first software that runs when you power on your computer. It initializes the hardware and loads the operating system. Outdated BIOS versions can lead to various issues, including:

Incompatibility with new hardware: Newer CPUs, GPUs, or RAM modules might not function correctly, or at all, with an older BIOS.
System instability: Bugs in the BIOS can cause crashes, freezes, and other unpredictable behavior.
Security vulnerabilities: BIOS updates often include security patches to protect against potential threats.
Performance limitations: Updates can improve overall system performance and efficiency.
Lack of support for new features: Newer BIOS versions might enable features such as improved overclocking options or support for faster storage technologies.

Knowing these benefits will help you determine if a BIOS update is right for you. It’s important to note that updating your BIOS incorrectly can brick your motherboard, rendering your computer unusable. Therefore, proceed with caution and follow the instructions carefully.

Before You Begin: Preparation is Key

Before diving into the update process, it’s essential to take the following precautions:

Identify Your Motherboard Model: This is the most crucial step. Incorrect BIOS files can severely damage your motherboard. You can typically find the model number printed on the motherboard itself, usually near the CPU socket or RAM slots. Alternatively, you can use tools like CPU-Z or the DirectX Diagnostic Tool (dxdiag) in Windows to identify your motherboard model.
Download the Correct BIOS File: Once you know your motherboard model, visit the official MSI website. Navigate to the support section and search for your motherboard model. Download the latest BIOS file specifically designed for your motherboard and operating system. Double-check the file name and description to ensure it matches your motherboard model precisely.
Prepare a USB Drive: You’ll need a USB flash drive formatted to FAT32. Make sure the drive is empty and reliable. A faulty USB drive can interrupt the update process and cause problems.
Back Up Your Current BIOS (Optional but Recommended): Some MSI BIOS update utilities allow you to back up your current BIOS before flashing the new one. This provides a safety net in case something goes wrong. Refer to your motherboard’s manual for instructions on how to back up your BIOS.
Ensure Stable Power: A power outage during the BIOS update can be disastrous. Use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) if possible. If not, ensure that your power supply is stable and that there’s no risk of a power interruption during the process.
Read the Instructions Carefully: MSI provides detailed instructions for updating the BIOS on its website. Read them thoroughly before you begin.

Identifying Your Motherboard

As mentioned earlier, identifying your motherboard is critical. Here’s a closer look at how to do it:

Physical Inspection: Open your computer case (after powering it down and disconnecting it from the power outlet) and visually inspect the motherboard. The model number is often printed prominently on the board.
CPU-Z: Download and install CPU-Z. Under the “Mainboard” tab, you’ll find the manufacturer and model of your motherboard.
DirectX Diagnostic Tool (dxdiag): Press the Windows key + R, type “dxdiag,” and press Enter. In the DirectX Diagnostic Tool, look for the “System Manufacturer” and “System Model” information.
System Information (msinfo32): Press the Windows key + R, type “msinfo32,” and press Enter. This tool provides detailed system information, including the motherboard manufacturer and model.

Methods for Updating Your MSI BIOS

There are several methods for updating your MSI BIOS in Windows 10. We’ll cover the most common and reliable methods.

Method 1: M-FLASH (Recommended)

M-FLASH is a BIOS flashing utility built directly into the MSI BIOS. It’s generally considered the safest and most reliable method.

Extract the BIOS File: After downloading the BIOS file from the MSI website, extract its contents to the root directory of your FAT32-formatted USB drive. The file usually has a “.bin” extension.
Enter BIOS Setup: Restart your computer and press the appropriate key to enter the BIOS setup utility. This key is usually Delete, F2, or F12. The boot-up screen will usually display the correct key to press.
Navigate to M-FLASH: Within the BIOS setup utility, navigate to the “M-FLASH” section. The location of this option may vary depending on your motherboard model, but it’s usually found under the “Utilities” or “BIOS” section.
Select the BIOS File: M-FLASH will scan your USB drive for valid BIOS files. Select the “.bin” file you extracted earlier.
Confirm and Start the Update: M-FLASH will prompt you to confirm the update. Double-check that the file name and motherboard model are correct before proceeding. Once you’re sure, confirm the update and wait for the process to complete.
Do Not Interrupt the Process: It is absolutely crucial not to interrupt the update process. Do not turn off the computer or remove the USB drive during the update.
Restart Your Computer: Once the update is complete, the system will automatically restart. If it doesn’t, you can manually restart it.
Load Optimized Defaults: After the restart, enter the BIOS setup utility again and load optimized defaults. This will ensure that the BIOS settings are properly configured for the new BIOS version. Save the changes and exit the BIOS setup utility.

Method 2: MSI Center (Dragon Center)

MSI Center (formerly Dragon Center) is a software utility provided by MSI that allows you to manage various aspects of your system, including updating the BIOS.

Install MSI Center: Download and install MSI Center from the MSI website.
Open MSI Center: Launch MSI Center after installation.
Find the Live Update or Support Section: Navigate to the “Live Update” or “Support” section within MSI Center. The exact name and location may vary depending on the version of MSI Center.
Scan for Updates: Click the “Scan” button to check for available updates.
Select the BIOS Update: If a BIOS update is available, it will be listed in the update section. Select the BIOS update and click the “Update” button.
Follow the On-Screen Instructions: MSI Center will guide you through the update process. Pay close attention to the instructions and do not interrupt the process.
Restart Your Computer: After the update is complete, the system will automatically restart.
Load Optimized Defaults: Enter the BIOS setup utility and load optimized defaults. Save the changes and exit.

Method 3: Using the UEFI Shell

This method involves using the UEFI shell, a command-line interface within the BIOS. It’s a more advanced method and should only be used if you’re comfortable with command-line interfaces.

Prepare the USB Drive: Format your USB drive to FAT32 and copy the BIOS file and the UEFI shell application (usually named “Shell.efi” or similar) to the root directory. You can usually find the UEFI shell application on the MSI website or in your motherboard’s manual.
Enter BIOS Setup: Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup utility.
Boot from USB: Configure the BIOS to boot from the USB drive. The exact steps for doing this will vary depending on your motherboard model.
Access the UEFI Shell: After booting from the USB drive, you should be presented with the UEFI shell prompt.
Navigate to the USB Drive: Use the “fs0:” command (or “fs1:”, “fs2:”, etc., depending on which drive letter is assigned to your USB drive) to navigate to the USB drive.
Flash the BIOS: Use the appropriate command to flash the BIOS. This command will vary depending on the BIOS flashing utility provided by MSI. Refer to your motherboard’s manual for the correct command. It will typically involve the name of the flashing utility followed by the name of the BIOS file (e.g., “E7B79IMS.100”).
Do Not Interrupt the Process: Do not interrupt the update process.
Restart Your Computer: Once the update is complete, restart your computer.
Load Optimized Defaults: Enter the BIOS setup utility and load optimized defaults. Save the changes and exit.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Despite careful preparation, things can sometimes go wrong during a BIOS update. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

System Won’t Boot After Update: This is the most dreaded scenario. If your system won’t boot after the update, try the following:
- Clear CMOS: Clearing the CMOS resets the BIOS to its default settings. Locate the CMOS battery on your motherboard and remove it for a few minutes. Then, reinsert the battery and try booting the system. Alternatively, there’s often a CMOS reset jumper on the motherboard – consult your manual.
- BIOS Flashback (if supported): Some MSI motherboards have a BIOS Flashback feature that allows you to flash the BIOS even if the system won’t boot. Refer to your motherboard’s manual for instructions on how to use BIOS Flashback. This usually involves placing the BIOS file on a USB drive and pressing a specific button on the motherboard.
- RMA the Motherboard: If all else fails, you may need to RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) the motherboard to MSI for repair or replacement.
Incorrect BIOS File Flashed: If you accidentally flashed the wrong BIOS file, the system might be unstable or not boot at all. Follow the same troubleshooting steps as above.
Update Process Interrupted: If the update process is interrupted due to a power outage or other reason, the BIOS might be corrupted. Follow the same troubleshooting steps as above.
BIOS Update Utility Not Recognizing USB Drive: Ensure that the USB drive is formatted to FAT32 and that the BIOS file is in the root directory. Try using a different USB drive.
Error Messages During Update: Note down the error message and search for it online. There might be a specific solution for that particular error.

Final Thoughts

Updating your MSI BIOS in Windows 10 can seem intimidating, but by following these steps carefully, you can ensure a smooth and successful update. Remember to always identify your motherboard model correctly, download the appropriate BIOS file from the official MSI website, and take necessary precautions to prevent interruptions during the update process. By keeping your BIOS up-to-date, you can improve your system’s performance, stability, and compatibility with the latest hardware and software. Always prioritize safety and double-check every step before proceeding.

What are the risks involved in updating my MSI BIOS?

Updating your BIOS carries inherent risks, primarily the potential for bricking your motherboard if the process is interrupted or fails. This can occur due to power outages, corrupted update files, or using an incorrect BIOS version for your specific motherboard model. Bricking renders your motherboard unusable, requiring professional repair or replacement, which can be costly and time-consuming. Therefore, it is critical to follow instructions meticulously and ensure a stable power supply throughout the entire update procedure.

Another potential risk involves unintended changes or instability after the update. A new BIOS might introduce compatibility issues with existing hardware or software, leading to system crashes, boot problems, or performance degradation. Before updating, it is advisable to research user reports and forums to identify any potential problems associated with the new BIOS version and determine if the benefits outweigh the risks for your particular system configuration.

How do I identify my current MSI BIOS version?

Identifying your current BIOS version is a crucial step before attempting any update. This information helps you determine if an update is necessary and ensures you download the correct BIOS file for your motherboard. You can easily find your BIOS version directly within Windows. Press the Windows key + R, type “msinfo32” (without quotes) into the Run dialog box, and press Enter. This will open the System Information window.

In the System Information window, look for the entry labeled “BIOS Version/Date.” This entry will display the BIOS manufacturer (MSI), the BIOS version number, and the date it was released. Note this information down carefully, as you will need it to verify compatibility with the BIOS updates available on the MSI website. Double-checking the motherboard model number is also essential, usually found printed on the motherboard itself or in the system information.

Where can I download the latest MSI BIOS update for my motherboard?

The safest and most reliable place to download the latest BIOS update for your MSI motherboard is the official MSI website. Navigate to the MSI website and use the search function to find your specific motherboard model. It’s extremely important to enter the exact model number to avoid downloading the wrong BIOS file, which could cause serious damage to your system.

Once you’ve found your motherboard’s product page, navigate to the “Support” or “Downloads” section. Look for a category specifically labeled “BIOS” or “Firmware.” Here you will find a list of available BIOS versions for your motherboard, along with their release dates and brief descriptions of any changes or improvements they offer. Download the latest version, ensuring it is compatible with your operating system and motherboard revision.

What is the M-FLASH utility in MSI BIOS, and how do I use it?

M-FLASH is an integrated BIOS flashing utility built directly into the MSI BIOS interface. It provides a safer and more reliable method of updating your BIOS compared to updating directly from within Windows. Using M-FLASH minimizes the risk of operating system interference or software conflicts that could interrupt the update process.

To use M-FLASH, first, download the BIOS update file from the MSI website and save it to a USB flash drive formatted in FAT32. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup by pressing the Delete key (or the designated key for your motherboard) during startup. Navigate to the M-FLASH section within the BIOS menu, select the USB drive containing the BIOS file, and follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the update process. The system will reboot and begin flashing the new BIOS.

What should I do if the BIOS update process is interrupted?

If the BIOS update process is interrupted due to a power outage, system crash, or any other unexpected event, your motherboard might become bricked, meaning it will no longer boot. In this situation, it is crucial to remain calm and avoid making any rash decisions. Do not attempt to restart the system multiple times, as this could potentially worsen the damage.

The first step is to check if your MSI motherboard has a BIOS flashback feature, often referred to as “BIOS Flashback+” or a similar name. This feature allows you to recover the BIOS from a USB drive even without a working CPU or RAM. Consult your motherboard manual to determine if your board supports this feature and follow the specific instructions provided by MSI to initiate the BIOS recovery process. If the BIOS flashback feature is unavailable or unsuccessful, you may need to contact MSI support or seek professional assistance from a computer repair shop to attempt a BIOS chip replacement or reprogramming.

Can I revert to a previous BIOS version after updating?

Whether you can revert to a previous BIOS version after updating depends on your specific MSI motherboard and the BIOS version you updated to. Some MSI motherboards allow downgrading to older BIOS versions through the M-FLASH utility, while others may have restrictions or limitations in place to prevent downgrading. The reason for these restrictions is often due to security patches or hardware compatibility changes introduced in newer BIOS versions.

Before attempting to downgrade, thoroughly research the changelog of each BIOS version on the MSI website and consult your motherboard manual. Look for any warnings or instructions regarding downgrading BIOS. If downgrading is possible, use the M-FLASH utility to load the desired older BIOS file from a USB drive, following the same procedure as a regular BIOS update. Be aware that downgrading can potentially introduce instability or security vulnerabilities if the newer BIOS version addressed critical issues. If you encounter any issues, revert to the newest possible stable version.

What are the benefits of updating my MSI BIOS?

Updating your MSI BIOS can offer several significant benefits, ranging from improved system stability and compatibility to enhanced performance and new features. Newer BIOS versions often include fixes for bugs and security vulnerabilities that may be present in older versions, contributing to a more stable and secure computing environment. They can also improve compatibility with newer hardware components, such as CPUs, RAM, and graphics cards, ensuring proper functionality and optimal performance.

In addition to stability and compatibility improvements, BIOS updates can also unlock new features or enhancements for your motherboard. These may include support for higher RAM speeds, improved CPU overclocking capabilities, or more advanced power management settings. By keeping your BIOS up to date, you can ensure that you are taking full advantage of your hardware and benefiting from the latest advancements in motherboard technology. Check the changelog for each update to see specifically what has been addressed or introduced.